Our checklist when purchasing a second-hand mobility scooter

If you are considering buying a second-hand mobility scooter, it is important for you to do your research beforehand. There are a variety of things to consider such as its battery usage and the condition of the battery, the overall condition of the scooter and its maintenance history. Be sure to find out why the seller is selling the scooter and make sure you take it for a test drive.  

To help you make the correct decision, we have put together a guide on what to check before you purchase a second-hand mobility scooter. 

Check the battery usage and the condition of the battery

Buying a new battery and having it installed isn’t cheap, so for this reason it’s vital you check the condition of the mobility scooter's battery before making your purchase. The worse the battery condition is, the more likely it will drain quicker, reducing the distance that you can travel before having to recharge it. Make sure you confirm with the owner that the battery doesn’t cut out because this is a big indicator that it needs replacing immediately.  

Take note of the overall condition of the scooter  

When viewing the mobility scooter, make sure you inspect it for any damage. Take your time to inspect it thoroughly, taking note of any marks, scratches or dents. Make sure you check the condition of the tyres, the wear and tear on the seat and look out for any signs of rust. You should also check the condition of the scooter’s undercarriage, note any loose screws and ensure that the lights and indicators work if the model of scooter comes equipped with them. The more damage the scooter has, the shorter its lifespan.

Does the scooter have a full service history?  

Mobility scooters need to be well maintained and should be serviced every 6-12 months - depending on usage. It’s therefore important to check if the previous owner has kept up with the servicing of the vehicle. If the service history shows that it’s been regularly maintained, then you can make the assumption that it’s been looked after and will prove to be a reliable purchase.

Ask the seller why the scooter is for sale

One of the first questions to ask when considering a second-hand mobility scooter is why the seller no longer needs it. Ask if they have a full service history, as well as any documentation relating to historic repairs and how the scooter has been maintained. Depending on how they answer these questions, you can make a quick, informed decision as to whether or not it’s the right scooter for you. 

Is the scooter within warranty?  

Always check if the scooter is still within warranty. By purchasing through an authorised dealer, it’s likely that the scooter will come with 3-6 months warranty as standard. Purchasing from a private seller will not guarantee the inclusion of a warranty - which could cause issues further down the line if the scooter develops technical or mechanical faults. Most warranties are comprehensive and include the majority of repairs - excluding punctures.  

Confirm the mobility scooters’ number  

Every mobility scooter comes with a model or serial number. Use this number to look up the scooter to confirm if the specification is the same as advertised. When completing your checks, make sure that parts are still available for the scooter in case it develops a fault and you need to purchase replacements in the future. If parts are no longer available, then this could be a sign that the scooter is too old and you should continue to look elsewhere. 

Test drive the scooter  

One of the best ways to get a feeling for a scooter is to take it for a test drive. This will allow you to get a feel for the ride and its condition. Make a note of the seat comfort, any unusual noises, how reactive the steering is, the smoothness of the ride and how effective the brakes are. You should also check for any electrical faults - including the horn, lights, indicator and USB charger. If any of these are faulty, then we would advise highlighting this to the owner. If they are not prepared to fix them, then you should look for an alternative scooter elsewhere.  

Buying second-hand is a great way to make your scooter purchase more affordable. Just make sure you do the necessary checks before committing and if you have any questions at all, or you want to check out our range of brilliant second-hand mobility scooters, then do feel free to speak to our team.